Winter has arrived, and ice is forming on Frantz Lake, despite the unseasonably warm December weather. The eleven-acre lake is situated just a short drive from the vibrant, historic mountain town of Salida, Colorado. Visitors to Frantz Lake State Wildlife Area will quickly discover a rich history, outstanding fishing, and wildlife viewing opportunities that can include a wide range of bird species, deer, fox, and even the occasional bear.
Four Seasons of Fishing Fun
Colorado offers a variety of angling adventures, from the breathtaking high-altitude lakes to the lively Platte River that flows through Denver. Among Colorado’s many options, Frantz Lake is ideal for those seeking a convenient and enjoyable fishing experience. Located within a small park setting, it offers easy access for a full day of fishing or a relaxing lunchtime break. The Frantz Lake State Wildlife Area is a wonderful spot for both seasoned anglers and beginners alike, featuring a friendly atmosphere for quick getaways. For newcomers learning the ropes, the lake’s accessible layout helps keep lines in the water and out of the trees and bushes. With multiple access points around the lake and features like an ADA pier, well-maintained walking paths, and bathroom facilities, this area truly feels welcoming and safe for everyone.
Notably, Frantz Lake State Wildlife Area (SWA) is a favorite among Colorado Parks and Wildlife’s biologists, recognized as a top-quality fishery and as one of about fifty Colorado Quality Waters fishing spots. The lakes and streams featured in the Colorado Quality Waters list boast vibrant fisheries with public access, making them perfect for a variety of fishing adventures. These waters may be known for a single species or a mix of several.
While motorized boats aren’t allowed at the SWA, during the warmer months, many visitors enjoy exploring with hand-launched boats, such as canoes and kayaks. Frantz Lake is known for its fantastic rainbow trout fishing all year round! It’s also a favorite destination for ice fishing enthusiasts. As the lake begins to ice over, ice conditions can vary significantly across the lake, so always take a moment to check ice safety before stepping out onto the water. Anglers can also look forward to catching a variety of fish, with fish species including rainbow trout, largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, cutbow, and channel catfish.
Pet Friendly Pit Stop
With a network of trails around the lake’s perimeter and a charming dog-walking loop through the meadow, this area is a wonderful spot to enjoy a walk with your dog. If you’re traveling along Colorado’s scenic highway 285 to Buena Vista, Salida, or other areas in the San Luis Valley, this SWA makes for a perfect break — a great place to stretch your legs, give your furry friend some exercise, and maybe even enjoy a picnic at one of the tables or benches near the lake. Just a friendly reminder to keep your pet on a leash while you’re here to ensure everyone’s safety and fun.
History on the Horizon: The Big Stack
As you pull into the parking lot, you’ll immediately notice the distinct industrial vibe of the area. In the late 1800s, Salida was a thriving hub for mining and ranching, particularly after the arrival of the Denver & Rio Grande Railroad in 1880. The region was rich in valuable ores, including gold, silver, lead, and zinc. These raw materials were then smelted to turn them into usable metals, a fascinating process that extracts the precious metals from the earth. When visiting Frantz Lake, you can get a glimpse into its rich mining history. Right across from the parking lot stands the impressive Big Stack, a towering 365-foot-high smokestack built in 1917, serving as a proud reminder of the historic smelting complex run by the Ohio-Colorado Smelting and Refining Company from 1902 to 1920. Though the plant closed its doors in 1920 and the Big Stack was retired, it remains a significant part of our history, having been added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1976. It’s truly a remarkable landmark that tells the story of a vibrant and bustling mining era.
Protecting Colorado’s Wild Places
Visitors play an important role in protecting our wild places. The Frantz Lake State Wildlife Area does not have trash cans; therefore, please plan to pack out any trash when you leave. There are several receptacles around the park, which were provided by Trout Unlimited, for the disposal of fishing line. Please help keep the area clean and safe for wildlife by placing any fishing line you find in the receptacles located throughout the lake.
Help Protect Against Invasive Threats
Invasive species, including plants, animals, insects, and diseases, can really impact Colorado’s environment and economy. These species often arrive here by hitching rides on watercraft, boots, waders, equipment, and gear—sometimes by accident, sometimes on purpose. Since they aren’t part of Colorado’s natural ecosystem, they don’t face the usual predators or competition, which allows them to reproduce quickly and sometimes out-compete native wildlife.
Remember the motto: Clean, drain, dry — and disinfect! Be sure to scrub the bottoms of your boots or waders thoroughly with a brush to remove all mud, plants, and organic matter after each fishing trip. Dispose of these unwanted materials away from any water sources, including drains connected to water systems, to help keep our waters healthy. Before exploring new spots, take a moment to disinfect your gear with recommended methods. This simple step helps protect our environment and makes sure every fishing trip is enjoyable. Let’s work together to preserve our outdoor spaces for future generations!
Be a pain in the ANS by cleaning your gear.
Frantz Lake State Wildlife Area | Directions
General Information
- Location: Chaffee County
- Size: 25 acres.
- Elevation: min. 7,084 ft – max 7,166 ft
- Area CPW Office and Phone #: Salida, 719-530-5520.
- Facilities: Restroom
- Recreation: Fishing
- Fishing: Coldwater Lake
Restrictions
A. Vessel use prohibited, except hand-launched vessels propelled by hand, wind or electric motor.
B. Hunting and the discharge of firearms or bows prohibited.
C. Water contact activities allowed.
D. Bicycles and dogs allowed. Dogs must be under control and on leash by handler at all times
Colorado Fishing License
To access this area for fishing, individuals aged 16 or older must possess a valid license. These can be obtained through CPW authorized sales agents, via phone (1-800-244-5613), or online at CPWShop.
